Skin-whitening composition and method for manufacturing the same

Melanin-inhibiting whitening composition using indole compounds derived from marine actinomycetes

This technology features a skin-whitening composition containing an indole-based compound produced by the marine actinomycete strain Streptomyces sp. APA-053, isolated from Jeju marine sediment. It includes cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food compositions, as well as methods for the isolation and purification of the compound.

Tyrosinase-inhibiting whitening agents like kojic acid and arbutin have faced limitations due to weak efficacy, skin irritation, and concerns regarding cytotoxicity. There has been a consistent demand for new, naturally derived whitening ingredients that offer high safety while effectively inhibiting melanin production.

This technology utilizes extraction and chromatography from marine microbial cultures to purify specific structural compounds with high yields, which effectively inhibit melanin production in melanoma cells. Being naturally derived, the compound has low toxicity, making it suitable for repeated skin application. It can be applied to functional whitening cosmetics, topical treatments for melasma and freckles, and inner-beauty food products, expanding the whitening ingredient portfolio based on a new source: marine microorganisms.

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Key Features:

• A cosmetic composition for skin whitening containing a compound of Formula 1 derived from the Streptomyces sp. APA-053 strain (KCTC15538BP) as an active ingredient
• A cosmetic composition where the compound of Formula 1 inhibits melanin production in melanoma cells and is formulated into various forms such as creams, essences, and lotions
• A pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating skin pigmentation disorders such as melasma, freckles, and age spots, containing the compound of Formula 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof
• A step of obtaining the compound of Formula 1 by extracting a culture of the Streptomyces sp. strain with an extraction solvent, followed by separation and purification via chromatography

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This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Education's Core Research Support Center Program.

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